Faculty

The faculty at Ezra Academy consists of 28 teachers, 80 percent of whom possess at least a Master's degree. We also have a full time social worker, part time college counselor and a part time librarian.

Dean - Rabbi Eli Freilich is the heart and soul of Ezra Academy. As the first teacher in 1968 Rabbi Freilich soon took over at the helm and has led ever since. His concern for Jewish youth to receive a proper education of their heritage without compromising educational excellence and opportunity knows no bounds. Rabbi Freilich is not only a role model for all but has also served with his wife Chavi ay”h as surrogate parents to many, providing them with comfort and stability when needed.After close to five decades and close to 1000 graduates, Rabbi Freilich is still admired by all that pass through Ezra as someone to entrust their lives with and guide them through these important years.But most importantly, the concern and bond does not end at graduation, rather just begins as he plays an important role in all his students' lives for many years to follow.

Principal - Mrs. Francine Hirschman came to Ezra 30 years ago after a history of educational experience and achievements.As a graduate of NYU she continued her studies resulting in a Masters of Art in Teaching, Certification in Educational Administration and Supervision, and finally a Specialist Certificate in Jewish Education.Before coming to Ezra she also served as an assistant principal and college guidance counselor in the Tri-State area for over a decade. Finally, she has co-authored numerous books and articles on Jewish Teens and Education making her truly an expert in this field.However, besides her educational and administrative expertise, Mrs. Hirschman shows a true care and concern for all her students making it her mission that they succeed not only in their education but more importantly life itself.

Assistant Principal Rabbi Moshe Friedler - Rabbi Moshe Friedler arrived in Ezra in 1990 originally to join the Judaic Studies staff.This coming after receiving a BA in Computer Science from Queens College and numerous years studying in the most advanced Yeshivot in North America culminating in his Rabbinical Ordination.Not long after his arrival his reputation as a star educator with administrative capabilities became obvious, and was appointed the Assistant Principal of Ezra.Besides his advanced Talmud class, which is sought out by all for admittance, he is known as one of the most popular Rabbis in the neighborhood, creating lifelong bonds with all the students of Ezra.

Assistant Principal Secular Studies - Ms. Sima Fish Esq. A lawyer, an educator and a history buff, Sima Fish has worked to educate herself, her students and her colleagues in each of these areas. As an undergraduate, Sima held a double major of political science and communications while also minoring in psychology. She graduated Magna Cum Laude and went on to receive a law degree from Brooklyn Law School. After passing the bar Sima recognized that it was time to prepare herself for her true passion, education. She returned to Queens College to earn a Masters degree in education with a concentration in history. Her thirst for knowledge, though, could not be quenched. Setting an example for all, Sima went on to Yeshiva University’s Azrieli School of Graduate Studies. She is currently preparing her dissertation so she can earn an EdD in Jewish Education. Although a title will change nothing, we at Ezra are very excited for the day when we can call Miss Fish, “Doctor.”